Thanks Mr. Eastman!

In 1888 the first hand held camera was offered to the public. A small box made with cardboard, using a fixed lens and a single shutter speed. It was the birth of photography for the masses. This was only possible after the invention of film about 4 years before. Both of these by George Eastman (July 12, 1854 – March 14, 1932). In 1892 he founded the Eastman Kodak Company, in Rochester, New York.

This wasn't the digital era, the camera had to be returned to the company for film processing. While batteries were not required, there was no preview, no review, no on-line printing or wireless upload for social media. Without possibly ever knowing it, Eastman started it.

For decades, the Kodak company was at the core of photography around the entire planet. Film, processing materials, photographic papers, etc. The arrival of other camera manufacturers that used film made for a booming business.

"Nothing last for ever but the earth and sky" On Thursday January 19th 2012 the company filed for bankruptcy.

One of the most widely sold cameras from Kodak is the Brownie series. Production of the various model stopped some time in the 1960s. Below are a few examples of these cameras George Eastman designed and marketed to the world.

The Brownie Six-16. Sold between 1933 and 1941. Leatherette covered metal box; front panel with geometric Art Deco design. Original Price $3.50




The Brownie Target Six-16. Sold between 1946 and 1951. Original price $4.00




The Brownie Target Six-20. Sold between 1946 and 1952. Vertical line design on front panel. Original price $3.50




The Brownie Flash IV. Manufactured in the U.K. Sold between 1957 and 1959.